Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further! These stuffed chicken thighs are the perfect answer. They're bursting with delicious Mediterranean flavors, are surprisingly quick to make, and will impress even the most discerning palates. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to elevate your quick dinner ideas game!
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, parsley, garlic, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This flavorful mixture forms the heart of our delicious stuffed chicken thighs.
Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
Carefully make a slit down the center of each chicken thigh, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Generously fill each pocket with the feta and sun-dried tomato mixture. You might find it helpful to use a spoon to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken thighs in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Using a meat thermometer is always a good idea to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. These stuffed chicken thighs are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or fluffy couscous.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overfill: Overfilling the chicken thighs can cause them to burst during cooking.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Bone-in thighs: For a richer flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in thighs may need an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
- Creamy filling: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese to the filling for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spinach and artichoke: Substitute the sun-dried tomatoes and olives with spinach and artichoke hearts for a different flavor combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: Approximately 30g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a great example of how delicious dishes can also be quick and simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!